Lori Jech

The board reviewed reports from school principals and received an update from the superintendent regarding ongoing bond projects. Discussions included the library book order, the selection of auditors for the upcoming financial audit, and the review of the five-year Teacher Incentive Allotment renewal plan. The board evaluated equipment options for the new Indian Arena and took action to approve professional employment contracts for the upcoming academic year. Additionally, the board approved the superintendent's recommendation regarding the non-renewal of a teacher contract.

The meeting included reports from the principals and the Superintendent, who provided a bond project update. The board discussed compliance with SB546 regarding school bus seat belt requirements, concluding that replacing older buses would be more feasible than retrofitting them. Additionally, the board approved the 2026-2027 instructional materials allotment and TEKS certification. During the executive session, the board discussed personnel matters, subsequently voting to approve the non-renewal of a teacher contract.

The meeting included the reorganization of the Board of Trustees Officers, where the President, Vice President, and Secretary were nominated and confirmed. Discussions covered positive initiatives in the Secondary Library led by the new Librarian. The Superintendent provided updates on bond projects, noting that recent waterline updates by the City of Nocona resolved water pressure issues for new fire suppression systems, which saved the District contingency funds. The Board accepted the 2025 tax roll, noting a decrease due to the increased homestead exemption. A substantial list of Board Policies was updated following recent Texas Legislative sessions, with two specific local policies tabled for future amendment. The Board accepted the West TX Food Service Coop Interlocal Agreement for the 2026-2027 school year and approved a resolution regarding the NISD ballot selection for the Montague County Appraisal District Board of Directors. Discussions regarding facility upgrades included tabling the decision on new student parking options and approving a quote for mandated security fencing using grant funds. A discussion regarding High School building repairs and soffit/trim color changes, involving decisions on uncovered windows, was tabled pending further information.

Key discussions and actions included the swearing-in of an incumbent Board Member, Erica Patton. The Board received Principal and Superintendent Reports, including an update on bond construction projects, with a note that the completion status of the Gymnasium for the 2026 graduation would be known by the end of February. The Board accepted the consent agenda items, which included financial reports and budget amendments. Actions were taken regarding Resolution 90211 for employee pay during district closures in 2026, acceptance of the Superior Financial Integrity Rating, and approval of the 24-25 Final Annual Financial Audit Report without changes. The Board also approved a Library Book order and moved to delay the implementation of the Teacher Certification Requirement Plan. Discussion occurred regarding the potential sale of district-owned land, concluding with a consensus not to pursue a sale. A separate discussion addressed the purchase of a projector for the new gymnasium, requiring further information. The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss personnel matters.

The meeting included a superintendent report detailing updates on ongoing bond projects, specifically noting that the new gym might not be ready for the 2026 Graduation, necessitating potential relocation to the football field. Key actions taken included the unanimous approval of the 2026-2027 District Calendar as presented. The Board also discussed and approved quotes for the internal electrical and IT wiring associated with the 2023 Bond Phase 1 projects, awarding contracts to STS360 and Nortex. Furthermore, a resolution (Resolution 90212) was passed directing the Superintendent to create policies concerning permitted religious activities in compliance with Senate Bill 11. The Board approved petitioning the Texas Education Agency (TEA) for a waiver concerning recent instructional time lost due to winter weather closures. Finally, following an executive session concerning personnel matters, the Board unanimously approved the Superintendent's recommendations for Term Administrator contracts for several staff members for the 2026-2028 period.